Almost two thirds (61%) of pet parents would dump their partner if their pet didn’t like them, with Gen Z twice as likely to do so if their pet didn’t approve.
A study by TrustedHousesitters, a global pet sitting service, asked 1,000 pet owners how their furry friends impact their dating and social lives, with surprising results. A huge three quarters (75%) have used their beloved pets to get out of a social gathering, while 1 in 7 (14%) have used them as an excuse to skip a date.
Gen Z (23%) and millennials (21%) were far more likely to use their pets to get out of a date than those aged 41+. 1 in 4 (25%) even admitted they’d rather run into their ex and their new partner on Valentine’s Day than leave their pet in a kennel for a week!
Almost one in five (17%) admitted they’ve already ended previous relationships because of their pet’s reaction!
One owner who ended a relationship over her pet is Rachel, 28, from Leeds, during an early date with a man from Hinge, Darren.
She explains: “I was pretty nervous, but after meeting in a bar and enjoying a few cocktails, I relaxed and the conversation was flowing.” Checking the time to make sure she wouldn’t miss her train home, Darren spotted her dogs on her phone screensaver and asked who was in the picture. She explained she had two dogs, Tilly the Jackchi and Autumn, her beloved rescue.
“He then went into a huge rant about how he cannot stand rescue dogs and doesn’t understand why people don’t just buy new puppies they can train up. He thought they were dangerous, unpredictable, and most aren’t nice to look at!”
Understandably, Rachel was absolutely heartbroken and knew this was a dealbreaker between her and Darren. She continued, “There is no way I would date someone who didn’t love dogs, especially my beloved Autumn, and that was it. I told him we are in no way compatible and that he needs to educate himself on dogs, and then I left for an earlier train.”
“I’m now dating someone who accepts my big heart for animals,” Rachel says. “Dogs are part of the family, and that’s not something I am willing to compromise.”
Angela Laws, award-winning community manager of TrustedHousesitters, who is also a sitter with 14 years of experience, commented on the findings:
“We know just how much pet owners love their furry friends – they’re often the centre of our universe, so, understandably, we want to spend as much time with them as possible. However, we were surprised by how many young people are avoiding social situations or missing dating opportunities because they feel like they need to stay at home with their pets. There are plenty of pet lovers out there, so we’re hopeful people can find their perfect other half, who shares their love of pets!”
Visit the TrustedHousesitters blog for the full survey findings. For full peace of mind that your pets are cared for during any future romantic trips, explore professional pet sitters near you.
